As winter enthusiasts, we cherish pristine powder days, crisp alpine air, and untouched backcountry lines. But as climate change challenges snowpack and the ski industry continues to produce tons of gear each year, many riders are rethinking what it means to buy responsibly. The good news? Leading ski and snowboard brands are stepping up with real action—not just talk—around recycling and sustainability.
From core materials to gear take-back programs, today’s top eco-friendly ski and snowboard brands are doing more than just “greenwashing.” They’re designing for durability, reducing waste, and launching recycling initiatives that help close the loop on hard-to-recycle gear.
Here’s a closer look at some major players—including Burton, Salomon, and Atomic—who are helping us ride into a cleaner future.
Why Ski and Snowboard Recycling Matters
Traditional skis and snowboards are notoriously difficult to recycle. Their layered construction—resins, fiberglass, plastics, and metal—makes them tough to break down, and most end up in landfills. Multiply that by the number of skis and snowboards retired each year, and it’s easy to see the environmental impact.
Brands that commit to recycling programs or circular economy initiatives are addressing this challenge head-on. And they’re proving that performance and sustainability can—and should—ride side by side.
1. Burton – From Boards to Benches: Recycling Done Right
Burton, one of the most influential names in snowboarding, has been a long-time advocate for sustainability. But in recent years, they've taken things a step further with real innovation in recycling and material reuse.
In collaboration with The Snowboard Recycler, Burton helps keep old snowboards out of landfills by repurposing them into furniture, signage, and even skateboard decks. This initiative allows riders to drop off old boards at select Burton stores or partner shops, where they’re collected and disassembled for reuse or recycling.
Burton also incorporates recycled content in outerwear and uses bluesign®-approved fabrics, ensuring reduced impact during textile production.
Why Burton makes the list:
- Active snowboard recycling program
- Recycled and responsibly sourced materials
- Transparent sustainability reporting
2. Salomon – Committed to Circular Gear
Salomon, known for high-performance skis, boots, and backcountry gear, has taken a bold approach to product design with their circular economy initiative. Their “Play Minded Program” is a roadmap for reducing their environmental footprint, with one key pillar being recyclable gear construction.
A standout example? The Salomon MTN Summit Pro ski boot, which features more recyclable plastics and fewer mixed materials—making it easier to process at end-of-life. Salomon also recently launched a recyclable running shoethat can be returned and repurposed, a concept they plan to adapt across categories.
They’re also piloting take-back programs in Europe, encouraging customers to return worn gear for disassembly and recycling.
Why Salomon stands out:
- Recyclable ski boot design
- Early-stage return-and-recycle initiatives
- Transparent goals for carbon reduction and product lifespan
3. Atomic – Repurposing Ski Waste into Innovation
Part of the Amer Sports family along with Salomon, Atomic has launched internal sustainability efforts that are already making an impact. One key initiative: repurposing ski production waste. In their factory in Altenmarkt, Austria, Atomic has found ways to recycle leftover base material and wood core shavings from ski construction.
Additionally, Atomic is working on more modular designs that make it easier to break gear down for recycling in the future, aligning with their goal of zero waste in manufacturing.
Atomic also plays a role in industry collaboration—working with fellow manufacturers to share knowledge around sustainable manufacturing and product end-of-life handling.
Why Atomic is making moves:
- In-house recycling of ski production waste
- Modular ski design for future recyclability
- Transparent environmental targets through Amer Sports sustainability reports
How You Can Ride More Sustainably
These brands are doing their part—but what about individual skiers and riders? Here are a few ways you can help reduce your impact:
✅ Buy from brands with recycling programs or sustainable materials
✅ Donate or recycle used gear through programs like Burton’s take-back or local upcycling shops
✅ Maintain and repair your equipment to extend its life
✅ Ask your local ski shop (like us!) about gear recycling options or eco-conscious alternatives
✅ Choose quality over quantity—fewer, better things that last longer
Closing the Loop on Winter Gear
It’s inspiring to see major players like Burton, Salomon, and Atomic taking action—not just because it’s trendy, but because it’s necessary. While the ski and snowboard industry still has work to do, these brands are proving that performance gear can be built with the planet in mind.
At Proctor Ski and Board, we’re proud to support and carry gear from companies committed to real change. Whether you're gearing up for your next trip or retiring a trusty pair of skis or board, we're here to help you make informed, sustainable choices every step of the way.
Looking to shop eco-friendly ski or snowboard gear? Reach out or visit us in-store—we’d love to help you find the perfect ride with a lighter footprint.